Andrew Betts and Robert Shilston are co-founders and directors of software development firm Assanka, which specialises in providing web based open source software applications for SMEs.
Enforcing rigid adherence to standards and with a concentration of open-source knowledge and skills, Assanka's projects demonstrate the future of software: low cost, platform independent, rapidly deployable interfaces to service virtually any requirement. Both Andrew and Robert have had extensive experience in a range of IT positions, including postings in Africa (Uganda and Zimbabwe), which have given them both an open-minded and inclusive approach to designing usable systems for the widest range of users.
Within Assanka, Andrew takes responsibility for standards, interface design and development.
Prior to Assanka, Andrew worked as a software developer at National Air Traffic Services, which provides air traffic control for the UK and eastern Atlantic.
The British Computer Society recognised Andrew's technical excellence in 2003 for his BSc dissertation 'Inspirational Searching', an intelligent search agent. He also holds a Brunel Diploma in Professional Development and is a Zend certified PHP engineer.
Robert has had a keen interest in innovative technology for as long as he can remember. After completing an MEng in Electrical and Electronic Engineering, he went on to achieve a patent on a new focus control technique, and is now undertaking PhD research at University College London.
Robert directs projects for Assanka and manages our server infrastructure. If he had any spare time he would probably enjoy dismantling old video recorders. So it's probably a good thing that he doesn't.